Engaging with our community and working to restore organizational trust has been a top priority since I began in this role. In a time when our membership would be understandably wary, I was surprised by the speed and willingness of our members to share their experiences, both joyous and painful, at the Press. I quickly understood this to be indicative of a larger need to be heard by organizational leadership, and worked to make myself readily available to our community, both current and past. 

Spudnik has experienced a challenging few years and, while many of these challenges predate my arrival, the impact on the community continues to reverberate through how we operate and function as an organization today. Through my conversations with members and as I came to understand our operational infrastructure, the true nature of Spudnik’s organizational status became apparent. I urge our community to read the recent statement from the Board of Directors, detailing some of the structural concerns we share for the organization, as well as the hope of working towards a truly cooperative organizational model. 

While the challenges ahead are daunting, I am confident in the collective abilities of our current Board of Directors to move forward in close collaboration with our membership. I firmly believe that each Board member holds the humility, compassion, and commitment that is needed to support our community through this next phase. 

As outlined in the Board of Directors statement, the Board will be holding a community meeting on Wednesday, November 2nd at 6:30pm. I implore you all to attend, whether you are a current member, former staff, or studio user of years past. This is a critical moment for the Spudnik community to determine how to move forward together. To allow the Board to best prepare for this meeting, RSVPs are required. 

Though the duration of my leadership at Spudnik is coming to a close far sooner than I ever expected or hoped, the generosity of our community has left a significant impression. I’m thankful to so many of you, not only for your support and the impactful conversations we’ve shared, but for the laughs and print-nerdiness we’ve indulged in together. 

With deep gratitude and appreciation, 

Sara Emerson
Executive Director

Members, we’re excited to be hosting a MEMBER SHOWCASE to exhibit your work in the Annex area of our studio during the West Town Chamber of Commerce 2022 Art Walk on September 23 – 24 (Friday and Saturday).

The Member Showcase will open to visitors for the Art Walk on Friday from 5-8pm, and remain open throughout the Member Market and other festivities on Saturday from 12-8pm.

We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors into the studio to see your work, explore the facility, and get to know our members and programs. Submit your work and join us for two days of community celebrations!

To Participate: Submit a Showcase Intake Form

After registering, keep an eye out for an email with more details about how to help promote the event. Questions? Email us: info@spudnikpress.org

This opportunity is open to all members of Spudnik Press. If you are not currently a member please join or renew prior to signing up.

About the WTCC Art Walk

Established in 2011, the West Town Art Walk is organized by the West Town Chamber of Commerce and a committee of West Town business owners to celebrate the diverse community of businesses in West Town while highlighting Chicago artists. The Art Walk is expected to attract crowds of art lovers, curious patrons, and folks who are eager to explore the area.

Cost to participate: FREE!
Register Online

Members, join us for our end-of-summer Member Art Market on Saturday, September 24th! We’re excited to be hosting this event during the WTCC 2022 Art Walk. Established in 2011, the West Town Art Walk is organized by the West Town Chamber of Commerce and a committee of West Town business owners to celebrate the diverse community of businesses in West Town while highlighting Chicago artists. The Art Walk is expected to attract crowds of art lovers, curious patrons, and folks who are eager to explore the area.

The Market will take place on Saturday, September 24th from 12-6pm during a day full of celebration, skill shares and demonstrations, outdoor actives, and print nerdiness galore!

Artist are responsible for their own signage, sales, packaging, etc. Registration is first come, first serve — once spots fill up, we will close the registration form. Registration includes table space and seating. You’re welcome to invite a friend to work the table with you, but please be sure to let us know in advance through the registration form.

To Participate: Register for your spot online.

After registering, keep an eye out for an email with more details about setup and how to help promote the event. Questions? Email us: info@spudnikpress.org

This opportunity is open to all members of Spudnik Press. If you are not currently a member please join or renew prior to signing up.